Originating from central Vermont, Nickel is very familiar with small towns. His parents were also religious and attended church every Sunday bringing Nick along. His growing up was incredibly difficult as a transgender individual. He explains, "Now that I'm genuinely happy, I look back on my childhood memories and realize how much pain I was in. How was I suppose to know I was suffering if I never experienced anything else?" He also explains, "I was casted out, befriended, made fun of, and ignored because I didn't take care of myself. I was overweight, hardly showered or changed my baggy clothes, and I avoided social contact because it would always end in rejection. To cope with the loneliness I convinced myself I didn't need friends until the age of 24 (I'm 26 now). Now I actively seek new friends and practice socializing whenever I go out. It's terrifying to talk to strangers but I try my best."

The difficulty of bringing himself to sell his artwork was a conflicting journey; Believing art was not meant to have a price tag. Now, he says, "In today's age, it's incredibly important for artist of all kinds to be proud of their talent and take what is honorably theirs. We deserve financial compensation for our natural talents and masteries. Your ability to create is not just a hobby."

Another challenge Nickel faced was believing he had to choose one interest. With many interests he could never make a decision, so as years passed, he chose nothing... until he met his current partner who changed his life for the better. He was only able to begin selling his artwork when he perused music.

"Every day I grow a little taller but I'm still in the dark. I dream of the day where I can emerge from the shadows and bathe in the rewards from all of my hard work." - Nickel Stillnight.

Nickel believes in the beneficial power of creativity toward society. He says, "Bringing people together through art means to find common interests with others who are different from yourself. Involving yourself into an artistic community promotes acceptance, love, and open-minds." His ultimate goal is to help people who struggle to understand the true potential of their beautiful characters and inspire others to follow their dreams!

Nickel is multitalented with many interests. 1.) Cooking, a hidden talent only his close friends know about! All of his dishes are experimental and rarely come from a recipe. When he does follow a recipe he enjoys creating szechuan stir-frys! He raves, "The spice and numbing are so delicously satisfying I have to go for seconds! I love spicy food."

2.) Music is Nickel's biggest passion! He claims, "I've always wanted to pursue music but felt terrified to sing in front of people! Being raised in the church brainwashed me with gender biases and guilt for abandoning my artistic gifts from god. Now, I know that's all BS and embrace what I yearn for." Nickel has created and released two original songs and will continue walking this path for the rest of his life.

3.) Home renovation was always an interest to Nickel but didn't start until 2022 (23 years-old). Now, he knows how to insulate, drywall, trim, and use joint compound. His specialty is painting and even provides custom murals for his clients!